New to computers? Don't know how to do something? ASK here.. I'll do my best to help out as much as possible! (for those in the US, the time difference means you might have a delay in getting a response, but.. I'll do my best!)

:D

Areas of expertise:

Using browsers OTHER than IE
Streaming audio
Video stuff (how to move data from camera to pc, editing with Windows Movie Maker, Editing pictures (to a point!) and what to do with a film you like and want to share with others)

And some general other bits and pieces...

skwerls_R_soft

05-27-2007, 09:07 PM

Great idea Abi!!

I'll offer my assistance in any PC and networking related areas. Anything except Macs, but I think Bob in Alaska might be the go-to guy in that dep't.

It would be cool to share how you made your animated GIF avatar. It's pretty cool :)

TexanSquirrel

05-27-2007, 10:05 PM

Good idea.

Alaskan Squirrel Cam

05-27-2007, 11:10 PM

I'll help when and where I can, my expertise is limited...but just ask and if I can't come up with an answer, I'll give up my day job.

bob

:D

Preacher

05-28-2007, 08:18 AM

Me & BH can help some too...I've got to learn about video myself but as far as components, hardware, & even the scary registry I've been at it long enough now to know a trick or two. My biggest problem is whenever i take a cover off, BH see ALL them wires & thinks it's playtime!!!:dono

.. hope this is basic enough for people completely new to all this (and computers) as I've had requests for help elsewhere too... so.. I hope the following is easy for you to print off and follow or follow or.... meh... you know!

1. If you havent got your film from your camera.. you're going to need to connect your camera to your computers usb port and move the film across... NEVER use the proprietry software that you get with a camera! (trust me... four digital cameras here... I know the score!)
Just plug the usb cable in (which should've been supplied with the camera) and connect up. If you've got a driver cd for your camera... keep it nearby.. let Windows search for it... when prompted, put the cd in. If the cd starts up (it's called 'autorun') close it down!
Let windows find and install the drivers from the cd... (you may have to point windows towards your cd/dvd drive... but thats all!)

2. Once all that is done, you'll be able to go to 'my computer' and you'll see your camera as a 'removable device'... this is perfectly normal.. this is your camera and this is where it sees the images/video.... and all you do is open it (double click!) and click on 'edit' and 'select all'... right click on the first image and RENAME!!!
I can't stress how important it is to rename pictures/video..! (long story... but... I accidentally wrote over a picture............ )
then click in a clear space (VERY IMPORTANT) for the name changes to take effect.
'edit' and 'select' all again.. on the left hand side, you'll see the option to 'move' or 'copy' your files to a different directory... YES, THIS IS WHAT YOU WANT TO DO!

Select 'MOVE' and you'll see a dialog box.. from this, select the destination for your pictures and video to go to... if you're a complete novice.. then you want to select 'MY DOCUMENTS' (you can move them anywhere else later if need be)

3. Windows Movie Maker is a good and useful tool.. if you need to create a picture slideshow - make the most of it!
Open Windows movie Maker and play around with it... it's a simple application and I can't find fault with it for what it does.
When you're happy with what you've done.. 'SAVE TO MY COMPUTER'.. pick a name for your finished film... click on next and next again - let windows decide whats best for your computer!
click next again
A progress bar will appear... showing where the process is at. When it's done, you have the option of watching what you've done right there and then... save the project file and then exit the application.

4. Get an account with youtube, yahoo videos or google videos.... this is a painless process....! Once done, you can post to your hearts content....

Youtube is the easiest one to start with. Make an account there... once you've done that, access your account and select 'upload' and follow the onscreen instructions... Title of your film, a description, then select what sort of film - which would be 'pets and animals' and then click on the proceed button at the bottom 'continue to upload' ...
From there, you'll see a new screen.. there will be a blank space with a tab at the side that says 'browse' - which is what you do.. you click browse and select the film from whichever folder you put your film in (for youtube, under 100mb and less than 10mins duration) and then click to upload.

*phew*
There.. that should help!

skwerls_R_soft

06-13-2007, 06:50 PM

Abi,
Great advice.
I get annoyed at all that proprietary camera software too. People get stuck using it and it is difficult or buggy so they are afraid that trying another technique will be worse. The few folks I have been able to convert to the method you mentioned are very thankful and cannot believe how much easier it is !

Also worth mentioning is Photobucket (http://www.photobucket.com). Alot of TSB users use it.That is a an easy to use photo and video sharing site. And there is no wait until your submissions are "approved" like some other sites.

Abi

06-14-2007, 05:39 AM

My first old digital camera (which I still have lying around unused somewhere) had some software with it... my problem with it was it filmed stuff in .mov format and I needed to convert it. That and wondering where on my computer the pictures were! I couldn't have started on a worse camera than the one I had!
Over time, I realised that I could move stuff and not use the proprietry software that came with the camera - yes it was TOTALLY buggy and as a result, I probably ended up losing more than I saved.........
I found a program called 'SUPER' (erightsoft) to convert the format into something windows movie maker would like... but then lets just say... for a very short time.. I couldn't be bothered!!!!!!!! (seeing as how camera number 1 only ever filmed 9 seconds and there was no sound with it!)
So I then got camera number 2... This was another learning curve... I just installed the drivers and that was pretty much *it*... the same with camera number 3...
Now I'm on camera number 4........ The Pentax... Yes, I still have some to learn, but me and it are getting on like a house on fire and if my mother is getting used to my camera number 3 - then we're all gonna do just fine!
camera number 2 is the one I use for a webcam... so you see... bar from camera number 1, the others are still being used..
As for the proprietry software - NEVER!!!!!!!!!!!! (or in my case, I installed it *purely* for a couple of the video fx...! ah yeah, and the fact that I can edit and save in .avi format - something WMM doesn't do!)

There are better programs out there for picture editing.. I'll eventually create a list of decent progs I've used myself and guarantee do work!

Preacher

06-14-2007, 09:00 PM

Your 1st camera sounds like the digital I have now! But mabey someday....I can move up to camera #2!!:D

Abi

06-26-2007, 08:33 AM

Ok, some of you have said you're having problems with viewing videos on youtube/photobucket and the likes....

Here's how to overcome that problem (if you're at home - don't try this at work!)

Grab this, install it as per the instructions (follow the prompts) and you're halfway there...

Secondly... java.... *oh but I use the one that comes with the computer...!*

Ok, slap your wrists! get the FREE java from java.com (http://www.java.com) and again, install following the prompts.

Another thing - your BROWSER!
You can't do your computer any harm by having a second or even third browser... every little helps - more so than you might think!

Because of the age of my computer, I can't upgrade IE6 to IE7 - so I *have* to use Firefox... this is for all my general browsing and stuff... its the browser of choice because it's quick and slick and heck, if you havent tried it - you'll like it - you can import all your faves from IE into it - so you don't lose a thing!
I also use another browser called 'Flock' which is basically the same as Firefox, but is more geared towards things like java based chatrooms, youtube, myspace and other video sites (and myspace... jeez, myspace... bad at the best of times....! :rotfl )

So, there we are... a little 'how to'... :)

Abi

07-20-2007, 05:28 PM

*bump*

Critter_Queen

07-20-2007, 05:35 PM

Thanks for the :bump :D

I see what you have there...I'll take a little time when I'm feeling better to tackle it all...but it does sound easy...I already know how to get the video to my computer and view it there, so I can use your info and see what I come up with...might be a few days before I feel up to the task, but I appreciate you're help!!!! :)

Abi

07-21-2007, 05:27 AM

CQ: Thats why this thread was created - take all that complicated stuff, chuck it out of the window and give info as it's supposed to be - the easy way :D

Best thing you can do now is take it easy and do little by little when you get the energy to.... :)

And gain strength by knowing those little babies need you :D

skwerls_R_soft

07-21-2007, 10:11 AM

SPYWARE ! ADWARE ! TROJANS ! VIRUSES ! COOKIES !
Part 1
What the heck is all that stuff and what do I do to avoid it?

If you have ever wanted to know the answer to that question (or felt too silly to ask because you thought every PC user was just naturally supposed to know:dono ) then I'm gonna give you some answers. You'll even be able to scan your own computer and keep it protected against the no-so-good, the bad, and the downright ugly stuff. I'm posting this in 3 different parts.

Spyware:
Sounds scary and it can be. But most spyware really is more of an annoyance than anything.
What is spyware? It is any program that is installed on your PC without your explicit consent or through subversive means (like "bundled" with legitimate programs).
What does spyware do? It collects information on your PC, its use, and possibly you, and reports that information across the internet to wherever the program creator intended it to go.
Why would someone want information like what websites I visit or where I live? The truth is, just like everything on this planet, that it's all about money. Information is worth money. To whom? Spammers. Why? Because spamming pays good money.Yes some people DO actually read all those Viagra emails !
How do I know if I have spyware? Here is a basic list of symptoms of a spyware infection:

PC slows down or freezes up
Unexplained pop-up ads even if you are not surfing the internet
Sudden appearance of a new toolbar in your internet browser (Internet Explorer) window
Your internet homepage has suddenly changed (possible browser hijacker)
When going to a webpage the page you are taken to is not the page you intended on (possible browser hijacker)
PC's hard drive making noises like it is working when PC is idle ,or fan coming on at idle
Unexplained apearance of a "spyware scanner" program in your system tray (that's the area down beside the clock on the bottom right of your screen that shows what programs are running)

So now you know a little bit about spyware. In "Part 2" I will cover Adware, Trojans, Viruses, and Cookies. Then I'll share some free tools that will help you check and clean your PC.

Stay tuned....and if anyone has any questions or additions please chime in !

Abi

07-27-2007, 11:56 AM

In response to SquirrelsRsofts post....

Here's a couple of links you really do need to keep bookmarked....

http://www.truthorfiction.com/

and

http://www.millersmiles.co.uk/

BOTH links have useful information about spam emails and the likes... you should check these out if you get anything in your inbox that you're not sure about...
They both contain valuable information that you simply cannot afford to ignore...

:)

Abi

10-05-2007, 06:19 AM

Ok, so as I write this, I've barely had the laptop a week, but already, I'm getting used to Vistas 'funny little ways'.... there is however, an upside to it asking you permission to install something - it's for protection purposes!
How many times in the past have you accidentally installed something only to find that it contains something which may be harmful to your computer without you really understanding or knowing? When you have to keep going to 'start' - 'run' and type in 'msconfig' and then click on stuff you're not sure of in the start-up tab? Vista TELLS YOU... and from there, it's up to you.

Another thing - at the moment, there are a LOT of software incompatabilities with Vista.. sometimes, you might be lucky and something will work - other times, you've got to right click on the icon created on your desktop, go to properties, then click the compatability mode tab and set it to (for example) Win XP SP2 mode and ensure you've clicked the box marked 'run as administrator' or you're going to find more dialog boxes popping up.

I'm still dipping my toes in the water with Vista... so it's still going to be fun finding out what works and what doesn't. I know some things work on some but not others - a bit hit and miss....

If you're currently running Vista - do not install the service pack 1 BETA... a lot of people have had more problems with that than anything else....

Now then.. spyware and vista - the two do not go together and vista complains like a woman when it encounters it.... your choice however.. but if you can find opensource software or freeware that has the garuntee that there's no spyware - it should run!

I installed 'Stoik Capturer' a couple of days ago and it works absolutely brilliantly.. I can't fault it. (Webcam software)
There are going to be progs that will/will not run... so don't go throwing out your old computer 'just yet' :)

I'm sure as I get better used to handling Vista, I can report back here with information for fellow Vista users... in the meantime, do excuse the lengthy silences and all the swearing... there are always good reasons for this... either I'm distracted by squirrels or the little buggers are watching me from the kitchen window as yet another app fails to install.... :D

I've come to the conclusion that I'm still getting to grips with Vista... but I have to admit, Preacher, my feelings were the same as yours until I got my hands dirty :D

I've since found an excellent link on the web which has (in part) become my 'software & Vista bible' and... thankfully, there's more stuff runs than doesn't and... as time goes on, more stuff that runs will be added to that list to the point where it could end up being turned into a 'what doesn't run on Vista' link...

And here is that very link: http://www.iexbeta.com/wiki/index.php/Windows_Vista_Software_Compatibility_List

I have to also admit... it's harder/trickier to set up a wireless network than it is to run Vista for the first time...
(Ok, once everything is installed and all that, it's pretty sweet!)

Just last night (changing topic slightly) I got my old 2nd HDD from my old computer on 'share' throughout the entire network... this hdd only will function if my old PC is switched on... however, the reason behind it is to make it easy for myself to back-up the old computer... because right now, on the hdd I've allowed accesss, there's only 2GB of space left on the ol' 20Gb that was once available...
I purposely dump all pictures and video onto what is a media hdd... and once thats done... I'm leaving the hdd to be able to be seen by the entire network because of the radio shows I do each week... seeing as how I managed to get Vista to stream audio... (which wasn't easy to begin with, but a small flash of inspiration and one epiphany later... job done!) I like to think that my shows are as accessible as they need to be.... offline or online - whatever and wherever! :)

On the whole, we've had a 'good computer' week... (or rather, I have... hehe!)

Ok.. for the uninitiated, there are several programs that are required before one can say 'ok, we're running FINE here!'

So.. installed this week:
QuickTime (without the iTunes player),
DiVx (video... essential in some respects),
RealPlayer (some sites require that you have it)

And most important: java!! (and remember to install the update first... you can then remove the old installations after without losing a single setting!)
I also ensured that my flash player was up-to-date (this is so needed if you want to visit places like youtube and the likes..!)

And now, I can safely say that everything here is running as fine as it should be... :)

I know there's probably stuff I should be further looking at, but for the moment, I got this laptop running the stuff it needs to run to function.... :D

Should I ever get a call that I'm needed anywhere, I can charge this baby up, pack what is needed and do the necessary :D

Sites used for downloads this week:

http://www.java.com
http://www.divx.com
http://www.adobe.com/shockwave/download/download.cgi?P1_Prod_Version=ShockwaveFlash
http://www.apple.com/quicktime/download/
http://www.real.com (and you want the FREE player.. not the paid for one..!)

Ok.. for the uninitiated, there are several programs that are required before one can say 'ok, we're running FINE here!'

So.. installed this week:
QuickTime (without the iTunes player),
DiVx (video... essential in some respects),
RealPlayer (some sites require that you have it)

And most important: java!! (and remember to install the update first... you can then remove the old installations after without losing a single setting!)
I also ensured that my flash player was up-to-date (this is so needed if you want to visit places like youtube and the likes..!)

And now, I can safely say that everything here is running as fine as it should be... :)

I know there's probably stuff I should be further looking at, but for the moment, I got this laptop running the stuff it needs to run to function.... :D

Should I ever get a call that I'm needed anywhere, I can charge this baby up, pack what is needed and do the necessary :D

Sites used for downloads this week:

http://www.java.com
http://www.divx.com
http://www.adobe.com/shockwave/download/download.cgi?P1_Prod_Version=ShockwaveFlash
http://www.apple.com/quicktime/download/
http://www.real.com (and you want the FREE player.. not the paid for one..!)

:D

And what I should've said was.. It's not just Vista all this stuff is needed for, it's *ANY* windows operating system.... (from Win 98 right up to Vista!)

It's smart and wise to check that some of the stuff you're using is as uptodate as it needs to be - if it's out of date, then it's not going to work as well...

:D

Macs I shall deal with at a later date, but the same principles do apply...!

The best thing I can advise anyone to do is - find out if there are any computer courses running near you.. sometimes, a taster session is probably enough, but for some, more training is probably needed due to the ever-changing world of technology that we now live in :)
I'll even admit now, I've done several courses during the 10 years I've been using computers and everything I've done has been exceptionally helpful :D

Just don't be afraid of asking me stuff... I know more than I'm prepared to admit to :D

jules

10-20-2007, 03:17 PM

Abi,

I have some powerpoint emails I want to post on TSB, but when I try it says 'files invalid'. How can I change the files to make them compatible?. And which can I use? The emails contain pics and music as well as text!

:thankyou
Jules. :Love_Icon

Abi

10-20-2007, 03:43 PM

Ok, at this point, I become unstuck...! There's a prog I use for converting stuff (its got to be about the best darned thing I ever put on a computer) just not sure if it's gonna be any good at converting a powerpoint file into flash (or something similar) without losing any original audio...

http://www.erightsoft.com <-- you're looking for SUPER (and trust me, you really have to look for the download file.. they do NOT make it easy) and for the meantime, I'll have a look around sourceforge.net and see if there's something there...

:D

(sourceforge.net is one site you really do need to bookmark!!) :D

Abi

10-20-2007, 03:55 PM

Ok, I found this... http://www.authorgen.com/authorpoint-lite-free/powerpoint-to-flash-converter.aspx

and of course, there's also a free .pps player available here: http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/details.aspx?FamilyId=428D5727-43AB-4F24-90B7-A94784AF71A4&displaylang=en

yup.. M$ have a nice free-to-download-and-use one (I have it on the other computer here - works really well!) :D

Anything else is gonna be too darned complicated...! :D

jules

10-20-2007, 04:45 PM

Ok, I found this... http://www.authorgen.com/authorpoint-lite-free/powerpoint-to-flash-converter.aspx

and of course, there's also a free .pps player available here: http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/details.aspx?FamilyId=428D5727-43AB-4F24-90B7-A94784AF71A4&displaylang=en

yup.. M$ have a nice free-to-download-and-use one (I have it on the other computer here - works really well!) :D

Anything else is gonna be too darned complicated...! :D

Thanks Abi!

Got a problem though! I downloaded from Authorgen, but it wouldn't work. Kept saying that a windows component was missing. Updated flashplayer, still made no difference????:dono

HELP!

Abi

10-20-2007, 05:18 PM

I'd try the 'SUPER' prog - a bugger to get (it does download slowly... once you find it...) and I'd uninstall the Authorgen stuff for now...

Failing that..., there was a link I used to go to where I could upload stuff and it would convert online... and I can't for the life of me think what it's bloomin' well called!! But it's good and I'll have a look for it :D

Abi

10-21-2007, 05:38 AM

Nope... and all fingers keep pointing to http://www.authorgen.com/authorpoint-lite-free/powerpoint-to-flash-converter.aspx

If it doesn't work, uninstall and reinstall (download it from someplace else) and try again...

And here's a handy tip for anyone else: sometimes, when you get a zip file with a prog installation file in it - ocassionally, it does miss bits to ensure the prog installs smoothly... if you've done a search for it, download it twice (if you can, from 2 different locations) because one will invariably work...! :)

And there's no harm can be done by installing a trial of a prog if you know you're only going to be using it once or twice - just remember to go to 'control panel' - 'add remove programs' to uninstall it once you've done with it :D

jules

10-21-2007, 07:30 AM

Hi!

I have tried all that you suggested and now Im going to throw this computer out the window!:frustratedx

I have tried using Flashpointpro, Flashspringpro, Super and Powervideomakerpro. They either don't convert properly or don't convert at all!:shakehead

I noticed that TSB can only d/load bmp, doc, gif, jpe, jpeg, jpg, pdf, png, psd, txt or zip files....What do I do?:dono

I don't consider myself as being totally computer illiterate but this has me stumped!!!! AGHHH!

:thankyou
Jules. :Love_Icon

Abi

10-21-2007, 10:02 AM

it's got me too......:shakehead

there are still options available... will investigate further...........

Download, install and run... do the necessary (it will run as a demo prog) and save the powerpoint presentation as a .swf file....

Swish is pretty good software :D

Ok, I d/loaded this programme and guess what?...It won't work properly:crazy

It keeps saying 'the index in the specified collection is out of bounds' What does this mean?:dono

Abi

10-21-2007, 01:30 PM

it means its time to yell and scream......

and if you're gonna chuck your pc out of the window - do be careful that someone isn't stood there looking up at you.. little paws folded to chest and looking adorably at you for food....

:nono

jules

10-21-2007, 01:34 PM

it means its time to yell and scream......

and if you're gonna chuck your pc out of the window - do be careful that someone isn't stood there looking up at you.. little paws folded to chest and looking adorably at you for food....

:nono

:rotfl :rotfl :rotfl

My next option is putting them on somewhere like utube...not sure how to do that!:shakehead Maybe I should give up now!:D
Thanks for all your help!:thumbsup

Jules. :Love_Icon

Abi

10-21-2007, 01:38 PM

OpenOffice.org !!

The Good News: OpenOffice to the Rescue!
You may already know about OpenOffice— a free, open-source alternative to Microsoft Office. What you might not know is that OpenOffice can open your existing PowerPoint presentations... and convert them to real, cross-browser-compatible HTML pages, or even Flash movies.

^^ oooo! :)

jules

10-21-2007, 01:39 PM

Which is the best to use ...HTML or flash???

jules

10-21-2007, 01:48 PM

Im downloading that right now! We will see what happens!

Im wondering if its my system thats the problem..Im on vista 64x with powerpoint 2007.:dono

Abi

10-21-2007, 03:28 PM

I'm currently under vista 32 bit home premium....

Getting progs to work has been a bit of an issue, but.. I figure if you can get anything installed and right click on it and go to properties and change all the stuff to make it run under XP service pack 2 conditions on 32 bit and run it wil admin status.... might knead out a few kinks.... (don't forget to hit 'apply' before you hit 'ok' or you'll have to go through that mess every single time... and lets not forget, that Aero thing... not all progs like it!)

If (like me) you have an Intel dual core pentium processor... welcome to hell and enjoy the ride! :rotfl

just avoid that darned service pack 1 beta for vista... it's more buggy than it isn't...!
(and even on its official release, give it a few months before you get it... I remember Xp sp1... *ouch!*)

I know you're probably thinking that Vista is the ultimate PITA - you're right!
But over time... M$ will patch the a$$ off it :D

jules

10-21-2007, 03:34 PM

Mines Vista ultimate. I have an AMD processor!

I don't usually have problems getting programmes to work, but Im not used to converting files, especially to do with video/multimedia. Maybe I should go on a course!:D

Ive d/loaded openoffice...will spend a bit of time checking it out!

:thankyou
Jules. :Love_Icon

Abi

10-21-2007, 05:15 PM

Considering the fact that Vista only came out earlier this year, and courses usually last approx 12 weeks and that of those 12 weeks, maybe 2 hours a week are spent doing the necessary coursework and of course, the people running the courses have to do courses to learn Vista and so on... meh.. courses are only fine if you can adapt what you learn onto 'what you've got'... easier said than done for some, but... thats how it is...

I know there are still some organisations that havent upgraded from the now unsupported win98 platform (and win2k) and are having issues *snigger* :D

And the situation with me at the moment is 'I know too much and can't explain it' :D

I don't mind being the geeky one if it means that the skills I possess help someone who may need my skills to get something identified as quickly as possible.... :D

Sarah

10-21-2007, 05:30 PM

I have some powerpoint emails I want to post on TSB, but when I try it says 'files invalid'. How can I change the files to make them compatible?. And which can I use? The emails contain pics and music as well as text!

Hi Jules,

From the list of attachments allowed on TSB there's maybe only one format that'd be able to handle sound, and the allowable size is small you'd only be able to get a tiny part. I don't think posting them as an attachment is going to work even if you can convert them.

Your best bet is converting it to HTML. Can your Power Point open the file? If you have power point and your goal is to convert it to HTML, Power point will do it for you. Have you tried that yet? Keep in mind that TSB will not let you upload HTML files as attachments so you will need to upload the file somewhere online and then link to it from TSB.

To convert power point file, have the file open select FILE > SAVE AS > change the option in the SAVE AS TYPE: box to WEB PAGE or HTML. I'm running an older version so it might be a little different.

Good luck with your Vista....:rotfl

4skwerlz

10-21-2007, 05:56 PM

Hi Jules,

From the list of attachments allowed on TSB there's maybe only one format that'd be able to handle sound, and the allowable size is small you'd only be able to get a tiny part. I don't think posting them as an attachment is going to work even if you can convert them.

Your best bet is converting it to HTML. Can your Power Point open the file? If you have power point and your goal is to convert it to HTML, Power point will do it for you. Have you tried that yet? Keep in mind that TSB will not let you upload HTML files as attachments so you will need to upload the file somewhere online and then link to it from TSB.

To convert power point file, have the file open select FILE > SAVE AS > change the option in the SAVE AS TYPE: box to WEB PAGE or HTML. I'm running an older version so it might be a little different.

Good luck with your Vista....:rotfl

You can also save the file as a PDF.

Abi

10-21-2007, 07:17 PM

All depends on how stubborn Vista wants to be... ;)

I can't run a variety of progs on it because of the processor type... which means I have to keep my old pc up and running... VERY frustrating as it takes an AGE for my old pc to boot up ;)

Sometimes I want to scream and hurl the laptop... other times, I give up and boot the old pc up...
I can't run MSN on the old comp, but I can with the laptop... I cant play 'Worms: Armageddon', 'Worms 2', 'Worms: Wold Party' and 'Worms 4: Mayhem'
(been a fan of the game for longer than I want to mention hehe!) but I can play these games on our other comps... (4 in total and a mac...!)

The fact that I'm forcing myself to get used to our crazy system and all the operating systems is testament to my squirrel stubbornness to give up until the nut has been well and truly cracked! (I just *had* to use a squirrel analagy there!!)

I have a lovely week of editing videos to do this week on both the mac and one or more PCs....

Either way, by having more than one computer running more than one system means I can still get done what needs to be done... ;)

(eventually! :rotfl )

skwerls_R_soft

10-21-2007, 07:46 PM

Hi!

I have tried all that you suggested and now Im going to throw this computer out the window!:frustratedx

I have tried using Flashpointpro, Flashspringpro, Super and Powervideomakerpro. They either don't convert properly or don't convert at all!:shakehead

I noticed that TSB can only d/load bmp, doc, gif, jpe, jpeg, jpg, pdf, png, psd, txt or zip files....What do I do?:dono

I don't consider myself as being totally computer illiterate but this has me stumped!!!! AGHHH!

:thankyou
Jules. :Love_Icon

I am thinking that you'll have to convert your PP slideshow into an MPEG and then embed the video into a post. Maybe give PPT2Video (http://www.ppt-to-video.com/powerpoint-to-video-overview.html) a try. It has a free trial version.

Convert the PP to MPEG and then upload to Photobucket. Grab the code from Photobucket and embed into a TSB post.

jules

10-22-2007, 06:47 PM

:thankyou everyone for all your advice!:thumbsup

It's been really hectic today...we had some petty thefts on our estate early hours of this morning, and Im the neighbourhood watch coordinator, so I've been around giving out info and making phone calls for the biggest part of the day! Not to mention that I woke up with the fire alarm going at 6.15am!:ohthedrama
It turned out that the hall storage heater had overheated and was burning out...but all is well and susie and I are still here!:bowdown

I am working something out with the computer...changing a few programs to suit my needs and updating other stuff!:D If Im still having problems after that I will call on the services of my brother...he's a computer technic/programmer. He built this computer for me!:D

:thankyou again!
Jules. :Love_Icon

jules

10-25-2007, 08:09 AM

Hi!

Well, I completely over hauled the computer. I reinstalled the ISO and have spent the past couple of days reinstalling the programs etc.
I've decided to teach myself more about converting files, especially multimedia!:D

This amazing site has saved my backside more times than I dare care to mention!! It's easier to remember than where a particular program is and it's certainly one of the better sites I've been to (there are others, but I know what I like and trust!)
Just.. be aware that there may be some adverts popping up - just either close these down (never click on a pop-up - ever!) or make sure you have a popup blocker running :)

There isn't much this site can't convert... :)

toasty

01-18-2008, 09:35 PM

Hi Abi, I have pics that I would love to post of my little squirrel but whenever I have tried.....they are HUGE!!!!!!!! I have Vista and I don't understand anything about sizing pics. Do you think you can help me? Please! :D

Abi

01-19-2008, 04:31 PM

Hi there toasty, sorry about the delayed reply - so much going on here!

Ok, I've found and downloaded and am currently using a prog called 'irfanview' - and so far, I like what i see about it... it's free, and works really well... you'll need to download it and install it and let it run.
Open the folder where your pictures are and experiment around until you feel confident enough.

http://www.irfanview.com/

Hope this helps :D

Snipe

01-19-2008, 04:35 PM

I have been using Irfanview for years and love it, although I have many photo editing programs it gets used here quite a bit :thumbsup

Preacher

01-19-2008, 06:57 PM

What about GIMP...it lets you downsize!!!! & Free.....Thanks Abi!!!!

TexanSquirrel

01-20-2008, 12:53 AM

I need some help.

I downloaded my homework off the internet and it is in a zipped file??? And so I clicked something like Extract Files and then I tried to open them but it was computer jibberish.

How do you unzip them?

I need my homework! *headdeskheaddeskheaddesk*:soapbox

Abi

01-20-2008, 10:27 AM

Ok tex.. you need either winzip or winrar - both do the same job of extracting those zip files.... :)

I favour WinRar - it's effective, easy and quick.

The thing about compressing files into a 'zip' file is to make it smaller without losing all the content... (ideal for sending on the 'net too :D)

Just download the Winrar thats appropriate for your operating system from this location: http://www.rarlab.com/download.htm

Once you've downloaded it, install it and then you can sort out what needs to be sorted out :D

toasty

01-20-2008, 05:42 PM

Hi there toasty, sorry about the delayed reply - so much going on here!

Ok, I've found and downloaded and am currently using a prog called 'irfanview'

Hope this helps :D

Thanks!!! :D I'll go download it now and see if I can figure out what I'm doing. :thankyou :thankyou :thankyou

TexanSquirrel

01-20-2008, 05:44 PM

Thanks Abi! Here I go!

toasty

01-20-2008, 06:47 PM

I figured out how to resize my pics.....:thankyou It was really easy! But....now I have another problem. I don't know how to reduce the file size and when I try to upload, it tells me the file is too big. :sanp3 What now? :D

Abi

01-20-2008, 08:05 PM

too big?! sheesh.... ok.. seems like you're only reducing the quality and not the actual image size...

What I do is when I resize my original, I rename the smaller version... for example, the original will be something like squirrel1.jpg and the smaller resized version would become squirrel1_.jpg so I can see something that tells me - hey, this _ means it's smaller!

I use percent to reduce picture size - generally 35% as it seems a good enough size :)

Try again and report back, toasty... :)

Preacher

01-20-2008, 11:57 PM

To give ya an idea...with the camera I have now...untouched photos are 2048 X 1536. I use the Gimp program to resize to 480 X 360 to post on here. I don't know if your program is worded similar but in gimp I go across the tool bar on top to "Images"...then down to "scale image" What you need is the part of the program that changes the Height & Width in pixels. Just nose around thru the tools...you'll find it eventually...I hope!!!

See how much I've learned from Abi!!!!!

toasty

01-21-2008, 09:22 AM

Thank you! I'll play around with it a little more today and see what I come up with. My daughter tried to help me last night but we didn't make much progress. Thanks for your advice and patience! :) I'll let you know later today how its going. :thankyou

TinyPaws

01-21-2008, 03:05 PM

Hey..what a great thread..:thumbsup
ok here's my situation...when people on here post pictures that are in the tiny box with the red x, i am unable to access them..i have checked my security level and even updated my browser to no avail..i am a novice and hve had my computer for only a few years other then that i never used on, so i had to self teach myself on using it by trial and error...mostly errors :crazy
it will sometimes tell me i can not access the page because they can't find the srever or something about the URL...::dono ..any advice would be great.... :thankyou :D

Snipe

01-21-2008, 03:12 PM

I sometimes get a red x although it is rare.

Are you able to see the pic if you right click on it and select "view image"

If so then when you hit the back button it should be in your cache and should appear on the page you are on

TinyPaws

01-21-2008, 03:32 PM

Snipe:
I have tried all that with no success..any red x in a box i cannot access..only the pics that are downloaded some other way....???????
I have been so frustrated trying to figure this out...i've stayed up till 5am trouble shooting this and trying that...But most of the time when i put my courser on an x there is nothing no hand that tells me it is time to click and when i do i get ...NOTHING.......I am a person that does not like to be defeated, especially by a machine...but it has gotten me to the point several times that i just feeling like banging my head on the desk or showing this thing who's the boss by smashing it with a hammer...:compownu :chair

Snipe

01-21-2008, 03:40 PM

Maybe you have something tweaked in your settings for that particular browser and it followed during the upgrade to your present one :thinking

Have you tried a totally different browser?

My favorite is FireFox and I use it almost exclusively, I only use IE when doing windows updates

I looked and it is already clicked on...i also enabled folder view for FPTsites.....enabled install on demand....unchecked use Http1.1 through proxy.....and unclicked use Passive FPT for firewall and DSL.......NOTHING HELPED!!!
I believe i tried firefox once but probably due to my understanding of those things it was messin me up with other programs and make my computer slow...
I suppose i could try it again but i am all alone here with no one to watch if i screw up...this is the second hard drive in 3 years..dell told my my last one crashed so i bought another....of course they may have just wanted to make some money on computer ignorant people.......I did however put the new hard drive in all by my lonesome.......

Abi

01-21-2008, 05:32 PM

It could be down to DirectX.

The latest one is directx10 if you're using Vista, but if you're using any other Windows, the latest one is directx9c.

The best way of knowing what directx you've got is by going start -> run and typing in DXDIAG
A dialog box will open up and you can see what directx you currently have.

I am not a gamer, but you'll find that on most recent games, directx9c installation comes with most games available (better for offline installation - and quicker for installing too...)

You may want to give that a go...

:)

Alaskan Squirrel Cam

01-21-2008, 06:07 PM

There is a new program available for folks who need help in computing. It's called GotoAssist Express Expert. Its only in Beta but at this time it's really good remote help software. It's similar to what can be used through Windows XP and Net Meeting but it allows a technician to control or view your computer remotely. It's one session at a time and I used it for the first time the other day. It worked like a charm. I suggest those who are in need of help, to email me or others who they trust to work on your computer remotely to try this software.

bob

http://www.citrixonline.com/?SessionInfo=784263:C1DCAC3A7318BD9

Preacher

01-22-2008, 07:53 AM

TinyPaws..
I use an old Dell...450Mghz processor with 320 Mb ram & have no problems with Firefox. FF does have a "memory leak" that causes it to use a bit more ram, but that can be slowed down with a simple fix. It's also a much safer, & faster browser than IE.

ASC...the way i have folks hollering around here where I live for me to help with their puters...I may have to try that program!! Looks interesting.

Buddy'sMom

02-02-2008, 11:41 PM

I KNOW this question has been asked and answered before but I CANNOT FIND WHERE!!

I have been very happily re-sizing all my photos per the instructions previously posted. However, today I acquired a new laptop (don't ask) -- with Vista! -- and I recall only that the old resizing software doesn't work with Vista. I think there was another way with Vista, but I didn't pay any attention. :sanp3 :shakehead

Abi? Anyone??? How to re-size with Vista???

:thankyou :thankyou :thankyou :thankyou :thankyou

Snipe

02-03-2008, 12:04 AM

I have Vista on this laptop and Irfanview works great with it.

I have used IrfanView for several years and love it, it is probably one of the best resizing utilities out there in my opinion and that is why I use it even though I have plenty of other photo editing software loaded on all my computers.

http://www.irfanview.us/

Buddy'sMom

02-04-2008, 04:36 PM

Thanks, Snipe! :thankyou I will try that as soon as I have time. I thought it would have been yesterday, but it seems that this "Vista transition" comes with ALOT of baggage and unintended consequences!! ...... but it would be best NOT to let me get started with my present Microsoft Rant. :shakehead

I hope to be able to post pictures soon!

:grouphug

Buddy'sMom

02-05-2008, 05:50 PM

Well .... I wasn't able to download Irfanview. :shakehead :dono

Thought -- PERHAPS -- my new computer came with some resizing function. I found one in Office Picture Manager but I'll be damned if I can figure out how to make it work! Went to Microsoft.com to see if -- PERHAPS -- they have posted a Vista-compatible resizer (hey, they'll get to it eventually, right? :thinking ) -- not on their priority list, apparently.

But in searching, I found a M-forum discussing this, with suggestions of two other possibilities:

It's not quite as straight forward as the resizer that worked with XP and earlier, but it will do until something better comes along.

The Three Bears analogy doesn't seem quite right to me -- I have spent since Sat night wandering in the Wonderland of Vista and Office 2007 --:eek: :eek: :shakehead :nono :censored :pissed :soapbox :sanp3 :meh :devil Oh, what they have done to Word ................ :shakehead

This is for Microsoft: :overkill

:grouphug :Love_Icon :grouphug

Buddy'sMom

02-05-2008, 10:11 PM

:thankyou GB -- I am at least functional enough now to be able to post here -- and that took SOME doing!! (and much telephone and PM help and support from skwerls_R_soft --:thankyou :thankyou )

Let me suggest to anyone that is a casual computer user, if you can afford it, you might consider going out RIGHT NOW and buy one (there are still a few out there) that have XP on them, then save it for when your current computer dies. Because otherwise you might have to change EVERYthing. :sanp3

Alternatively, Circuit City offered a service (for a mere $40) to tweak it "so it looks like XP" -- and I've got to say, it pretty much does. So if you have to take the Vista plunge, FIND someone to do that for you.

The BIGGER issue (much much bigger) is what Microsoft has done to Word (as in Word 2007 -- which is the only version compatible with Vista). :frustratedx :madd :devil I'll spare you my full rant, but they have made simple word-processing activities very, very cumbersome and difficult. It is driving me bonkers! So if you rely on Word, you might want to do all you can to protect your computer and make sure you can continue on with XP and never ever ever have to switch to Vista and Office/Word 2007. (An alternative for many would be OpenOffice.org's Writer program which looks/acts much like "old Word" (and it's free!) (:thankyou sRs ) -- alas, it won't work for me as the doc-revising functions were just not sufficient for what I need :hissyfit )

:ohthedrama :D

My Little Trouble

02-06-2008, 12:27 PM

Thought -- PERHAPS -- my new computer came with some resizing function. I found one in Office Picture Manager

Just wondering if anyone, besides me :o simply re-sizes their photos through the edit feature (in the "Paint" program)?
I have XP/home edition - don't know from Vista . . . :dono . . . is that even possible with Vista?

jules

02-06-2008, 05:39 PM

Just wondering if anyone, besides me :o simply re-sizes their photos through the edit feature (in the "Paint" program)?
I have XP/home edition - don't know from Vista . . . :dono . . . is that even possible with Vista?

It is possible to use 'Paint' with Vista, but I find it best to use 'Microsoft office picture manager' which is in 'Office 2007'.

Karen

02-06-2008, 06:50 PM

Glad there is someone outhere to help upload pictures.
I was able to do it before, but now I cant.

I have tried attaching photos by clicking on the manage attachments button. Nothing happens except I get a "error on page" message on the bottom left corner
Any suggestions?
I have a xp
Could it be my firewall?

Appreciate any help you could give me.

Abi

02-06-2008, 08:15 PM

You're probably better off uploading to some place like photobucket and posting from there so as to ease the pressure from the software that makes the forum work... and ensure your images are a size thats meant for forums (why photobucket is the flava of choice :))
It's easier than you think it is and is nothing to fear... and once you've got yourself an account set up - remember to bookmark it so that you can easily go back to it when you have something else to upload :)

I can't see it being an issue with your firewall/AV software... unless it's Norton... and thats where it goes messy and I scream 'Nooooooooo!' at people....

NOrton - obey only the first two letters...........

You probably also have your internet security on a little too tightly... and it all depends on which browser you're using.. (Firefox or Internet Exploder) :D

My Little Trouble

02-06-2008, 08:42 PM

It is possible to use 'Paint' with Vista, but I find it best to use 'Microsoft office picture manager' which is in 'Office 2007'.
Thanks, Jules, it's good to know that much about Vista,
as I shall have to deal with it eventually, I suppose.

Guess I'll just have to stick with 'Paint', since I only have XP 'Home'. :o

Abi

02-08-2008, 08:10 PM

I KNOW this question has been asked and answered before but I CANNOT FIND WHERE!!

I have been very happily re-sizing all my photos per the instructions previously posted. However, today I acquired a new laptop (don't ask) -- with Vista! -- and I recall only that the old resizing software doesn't work with Vista. I think there was another way with Vista, but I didn't pay any attention. :sanp3 :shakehead

Abi? Anyone??? How to re-size with Vista???

:thankyou :thankyou :thankyou :thankyou :thankyou

Irfanview is a great little program if you're not into big programs or anything thats overly complicated :D

skwerls_R_soft

02-21-2008, 11:59 AM

How To Make an Animated GIF :

Here are the basic steps to make an animated GIF. You'll need a photo editor like Adobe Photoshop or Elements, or the GiMP (free). Others will probably work too.

1. Gather a series of pictures you want to animate (look at Nature's Gift's signature for an idea) and make a copy of each to rename. Make sure they are jpeg's or GIF's. (You don't want to permanently alter your originals)
2. Name them in the order you want them to flash in the animation. Example "Image1.jpg" "Image2.jpg" "Image3.jpg"
3. Open your photo editor then open all of the renamed images that you want to animate at once.
4. Resize them all to a common size. For the moon picture I used 3" x 2". For Nature's Gift's avatar I used 144 pixels x 108 pixels. In Adobe PS Elements it's as easy as clicking Edit-Resize Image and then manually enter the dimensions.
5. Create a NEW blank image with the same dimensions as your edited images. In Elements you'd click File-New-Custom and enter the dimensions .
6. Now you want to position the blank image to one side of your window so you can drag the other images into it to make a multi-layered image. In Elements you'd use the position tool (icon is the + sign with the arrow).
7. Drag each image, in numeric order, into the new image window and position carefully one on top of the other. Each image is a new layer and must be positioned exactly in the same position as the others or else the final animation will appear to jump around a little.
8. Open your layers window so you can see the list of layer thumbnails. At this point you can rearrange the layers if you want to change the order of the animation. I always delete the blank white layer if it is there. It makes the animation look smoother.

9. Once you have all of the images in order and positioned correctly you want to go to File-Save For Web.

10. You'll choose to make a "GIF 128 dithered" or something similar. It will need to be a GIF though.

11. You'll look for an option to select "Animate" .. In Elements it is a check box near the top of the window.

12. You should see some options related to "Loop" (select this if you see it) and timing. I chose 0.3 second timing for each frame on the moon image. Choose yours as you wish; faster or slower frame change rate.

13. In Elements you can choose to preview the GIF in an internet browser like Internet Explorer. This is handy for checking how it will look when animated.

14. You are ready to save the image. Click on "Save" and rename it. Make sure it is saved as a GIF or the animation will not work.

26549

26550

Happy GIF-ing y'all

Abi

06-18-2008, 08:07 AM

Firefox3

OMG!!! :wahoo

After firefox's main site crashed spectacularly yesterday, I waited until late at night before attempting to download FF3... glad I did!!!
I've never used such a sweet running browser - it's FAST!!! It looks pretty, it's just so pretty it could win a beauty contest and as for load time - well, from clicking on it to opening it, I snapped my fingers - hello content!
It's much quicker than IE7 (the beta for IE8 is in production, but don't hold your breath!) and certainly, it gets my vote!
(And IETab works sweetly, as does AdblockPro - two of the only features you need with FF in any case!)

Here's a report on browser speeds from Lifehacker (a site I recommend!)
http://lifehacker.com/396048/speed-testing-the-latest-web-browsers

:D

Abi

07-08-2008, 08:03 AM

This sounds complicated.. it isn't!

Start - run - and then type in 'msconfig' (minus the quotes) and hit the return key...

You'll see a dialog box pop up. Click on the 'start up' tab.

Now the tricky bit....

Look at the list.. you'll see everything that runs when you start up your computer... do you need everything running all at once? the answer is probably going to be 'no'.

So, uncheck those apps/progs that you don't want starting when you start your computer up and click 'apply'.

As an example, you don't need the following running on start up:

Realplayer
Quicktime
Adobe Acrobat
Java
Any p2p prog (Limewire and the likes)
Any program you're unsure of (in which case, take a careful note of what it is and place a reply here with details, I can tell you if you need it or not)

The other way to ask is to take a screenshot of the startup dialog... you should have a 'prnt scrn' button (or similar) on your computer... if you press that button, it'll take a picture of your desktop. Once you've done that, open up your paint program, select edit and then paste. Save as a JPG (with a catchy title such as 'whatdoIdo.jpg' and then post it to photobucket and link it back here with your request and it's easier to sort out than having to guess :D
(If you've got a lot of stuff running on startup, you may need to take more than one screenshot!)

Also, if you're thinking of downloading programs that you're not sure of - google is your friend....
If you've got AVG8 running, it will tell you what websites are safe by highlighting a green tick on the search by each link.

:D

Abi

07-10-2008, 09:56 AM

If you're using ZoneAlarm and you've just done a windows update and things are not working quite as they should, like.. no internet... LOWER the settings of ZoneAlarm to MEDIUM. This will resolve the issue (even temporarily) as one of the windows updates affects the running of ZoneAlarm.

If you know anyone who can't access the internet, make sure that they know this information - ask if they've got ZoneAlarm.

Alternative firewall solutions for the meantime include: Comodo and Outpost (both can be found using google...)

If need be, kill Zonealarm and download and install one of the mentioned progs, then uninstall ZA, restart your computer and that, should give you the same protection as before.

Alternatively, get a router!

Know what sort of connection you've got first - ADSL or CABLE - as there are two sorts of routers out there and ensure it's good enough for the connection speed from the modem.

Setting up a router will take up some time, but as it acts as a hardware router, once you've got it set up, thats pretty much IT.

It may take some time to set a router up - depending on your experience, but the basic connection to a router is as follows:
Modem -> Router -> Computer

If you want to connect wirelessly, you'll find with the router the WEP key to put in to ensure security... (and with most wireless routers, you'll find you can pretty much roam your entire home with a laptop...!)

This information is important... ZoneAlarm are currently working on a fix, but if you really need to use your computer for important stuff and contacting people with emergencies, then this is what you really need to know and pass on right now.

Preacher

10-29-2008, 02:41 PM

For those who are into techie stuff...Mozilla (maker of FireFox) is working on a new browser, Minefield, which I managed to download & try. It's not even released in beta yet..but is much faster than FireFox, and built on the same platform. Ought to be neat once finished.
Also Google is testing a browser which you can use now in beta..Chrome. Fast too..but still has a few bugs in it.
Just for your info!!

luvs squirrels

12-30-2008, 06:10 PM

Ok, all you wonderful smart tech people. Hopefully, you can figure out what my problem is.

My lap top was working fine this morning. I was on TSB. I clicked on a link in one of the threads to a video on YouTube, watched it and my browser shut itself down.

Now when I open either Firefox or IE, it will open my homepage but when I try to go to another website, it says:

Firefox (or Windows if using IE) has stopped working. A problem caused the program to stop working correctly. Windows will close the program and notify you if a solution is available.

I have run Malwarebytes, Spybot Search & Destroy, Ad-Aware and my McAfee scan. It finds no problems.

I can get e-mail and my granddaughter can get on Disney Toontown through a shortcut on the desktop, so I know the internet is working on the lap top.

I deleted the temp files. Any suggestions?

:thinking

I am running Vista.

luvs squirrels

12-30-2008, 10:49 PM

Abi suggested I make sure firefox wasn't running in the background. It isn't. She suggested I reboot. Had already done that. I had Adblockplus and flash block add ons installed like she suggested. She said I may need to reinstall firefox, but I'm afraid to do that because if it takes away the firefox I'm on right now, I won't have a way to get on the internet since Internet Explorer won't work at all. I would have no way to download anything.

Here's the strange part. I had gotten on a tech site and they said to try getting on firefox in safe mode. I did that and I can get on TSB. I minimized firefox and tried to get on Internet Explorer. It comes up and when I try to go to a website other than my home page, it gives me the same windows has stopped working error message like I get in Firefox without being in safe mode.

This is so frustrating!!!!!!

luvs squirrels

12-30-2008, 10:58 PM

Did you try going to System Restore, and going back a few days, where you know everything was fine? Every time I have a problem, I System Restore right away. It's the only "fix" I know how to do. :tilt :tilt :jump

Wow, Gamma - I am so VERY impressed with you coming on here!!!!!

I never heard of system restore or even where it is. It was just fine this morning when I was doing my usual TSB.

I'll have to try to figure out where it is.

:bowdown

Abi

12-31-2008, 07:38 AM

I'm on it and I've pretty much covered every single angle I can think of - including some that aren't mentioned in books/magazines :D

Luvs squirrels - you should have a pm with details on how utterly nerdy I am :rotfl

And how to find system restore :D

Always best to go back to a date at least 2 days before your problems started.. system restore has always been my bestest friend on the whole planet because even *I* get struck by badly behaving stuff now and then :D

To think that this time 10 years ago, I knew next to nothing... I am a sponge... :rotfl

luvs squirrels

12-31-2008, 11:16 AM

Abi, should I do the system restore before I download and run the ccleaner?

The lap top is working fine on Firefox after I disabled the add-ons.

Thanks, Abi and Gamma for your help.

:bowdown

Abi

01-01-2009, 06:54 PM

Again, you'd pm'd me and I'd answered before seeing it here....

Alcohol & New Years Eve does that to a person... :rotfl

luvs squirrels

01-02-2009, 02:05 PM

:thankyou everyone for your help.

I don't know what was going on, but it's working fine again. :thinking

I have learned a lot from you, Abi, Gamma and Skwerlz. I noticed when I looked in my programs that you can sort programs by the date they were installed.

The first problem I had was after I downloaded desk top smiley (I know :nono). I started having all these advertisements start popping up in different tabs. I uninstalled the program and still continued to have the problem. Then after a couple weeks, I started having the problem with the browsers not wanting to go from my home page. I did both browsers in safe mode and could go all over the internet. I disabled each add on one at a time. It seemed when I disabled the Quick time player in IE, I was able to surf with no problems. I was going to uninstall it, but when I enabled it again, it didn't cause any problems. :dono I could surf both IE and Foxfire just like normal again.

I found that on the same day I'd downloaded the desk top smiley, another program installed - system search dispatcher. I looked that up on the internet and found out it was part of desk top smiley, so I deleted it! The pop up advertisements have stopped. :alright.gif

So far, it's all good again. :thumbsup

Abi

01-02-2009, 02:24 PM

Just one final thing to do - and thats to ensure that nothing nasty is running from start up...

I think it's been mentioned previously somewhere on this thread about what you don't need starting up... but here's a rough thingy on it anyway...

Start - run - type in the box msconfig and a dialog box will open up.... go to the 'start up' tab and see whats running as soon as your computer is on...

You don't need the following starting up, so you can uncheck these boxes:

And anything you're unsure of, make a note of it and post it here - more often than not, it doesn't need to be checked in the tick box...

After you've done this, you'll find things run sweet as a nut again :D

And yeah, smiley progs leave an absolute MESS in their wake!
CCleaner should find anything that shouldn't be there and will prompt you to get rid of it - which is what you should do :D

luvs squirrels

01-02-2009, 02:41 PM

Thanks Abi, I'll post what all shows up. There's a lot and I don't know what a P2P program is. :dono

I unchecked Adobe, Quick Time and Java.

I appreciate your help.

Abi

01-02-2009, 11:03 PM

Ok, I can tell you that you don't need some of that stuff running from start up...
As it's late here (I'm running SLOW tonight - not the computer... ME..!) I'll get onto that first thing as soon as I realise I should be responding (usually about midway through my first coffee of the day :D) and I'll be better able to tell you....

:D

Bear with us, Tech Support is about to crash.... into a nice warm bed for the night :D

luvs squirrels

01-03-2009, 10:01 AM

That's fine, Abi - you take your time.

My lap top is running fine.

I did run the ccleaner and it have me a huge list. I didn't delete it until I know what they are. I was afraid I would delete it all and then the lap top wouldn't boot back up. :sanp3 I know a lot of them were cookies, which I don't think I need? :thinking

See ya later.

:wave123

Abi

01-03-2009, 01:46 PM

As for the cookies issue: some are passwords stored on your computer, some are from websites you've visited.. you'll do no harm in clearing them... all that will happen is that the sites you need a password for, you'll need to type it back in... heaven help you (if like me) thats just about every other site you visit... :rotfl and if you ever saw the amount of sites in my faves folder, your jaw would hit the floor... I'm all over like a RASH! :rotfl
(Can I remember upwards of 50+ passwords? yeah... :thinking )

Ok.. going through them in pictorial order (these are things to untick):

All of these, you don't need from start up... it's perfectly safe to uncheck these... (and any from Dell under the guise of 'support')

When you've done this, the next time you start your computer, you'll notice the difference straight away... :D

But it does seem as though you've done a good job of getting rid of the crapware - well done :D

My daughter fell foul of the smilies thing not long after getting her new laptop... so I told her the simplest rule is: Never install anything if you're prompted to by a webpage..
Those darned zwinkies took near on an HOUR to remove fully from her system...! While they look nice and all that... they're doing stuff they shouldn't... :shakehead

Also, if in doubt, (goes for ANYONE....) give us a shout.. I don't mind helping you guys out... after all, you do an important service to wildlife and you need your machines as they're essential tools and part of the whole process... :D

Preacher

06-26-2009, 07:53 PM

Oooosh, haven't been down here in awhile!
Anyways just to let the geeks know...I downloaded the latest version of FireFox in beta form to help test it. It's great so far! Will be labeled 3.5 and looks to be the best ever! Much faster than3.0, and not near the memory hog it has been in previous versions. Also like the new tab system where you don't have to use the file menue to open a new tab...just click a smaller tab located beside the one that is open. Also if you use your favorites (bookmarks in FF) you can just drag and drop the selection to the window and it opens almost instantly. The one problem that FF just can't seem to overcome is loadup time from the desktop..if they can make that quicker I'll just be in Fox heaven.
They haven't set a release date as of yet..but I doubt it'll be long unless a major bug develops.
Ok, have a Blessed Nite!

Abi

06-27-2009, 05:36 AM

Yup, I too am beta-testing the new Firefox and am suitably impressed... however, if you want a little bit more speed in your current firefox

tools - addons - disable the net framework (indicated by the fact it's 1.0)... it's a microsoft addon that you don't need and it will further speed up your ff browser. Leaving it enabled (as I found out) can cause browsing issues...

In fact, using 3.5 beta 4 now... and I do believe there's yet a further update for it... it's still a 'work in progress' but 90% of stuff works ok on it so far :D

(all but one of my addons works - not a major issue, but hey... can't complain! :rotfl )

luvs squirrels

06-27-2009, 04:56 PM

Thanks for the tip about disabling net framework.

I just love Firefox.

:wave123

island rehabber

08-18-2009, 08:55 AM

Help, oh ye magnificent TSB Tech-heads! My beloved Firefox has betrayed me....it's been crashing and hanging and now it won't even load. I've switched to Opera for the time being. Opera's not bad -- faster than my FF was, at this point -- but the visible codes are driving me crazy. Is there any way for me to stop seeing "FONT="Comic Sans MS" and all this other crapola while I'm typing a post? Very distracting.....has anyone else had trouble with FF lately?

luvs squirrels

08-18-2009, 10:47 PM

I've been having problems since they did an update time before last. I would exit out and try to open it again and would get the message that it's already running. They did another update a day or so ago and it seemed to fix it, but it happened to me again today. I've had to resort to IE :shakehead for a few things. I feel your pain.

island rehabber

08-19-2009, 04:37 PM

Thanks for responding, luvs...I was beginning to think I never posted this, because due to whatever browser problems I have or the continuing problems here on TSB, I never saw your response in "New Posts" :soapbox . You don't know how aggravating it is when I find out three days later that someone responded to me, or asked me a question. I'm still using Opera, but it's not too good for TSB I'm afraid. If I don't block pop-ups then my screen is covered with commercial GARBAGE....when I block the pop-ups, my PM's don't pop so I never know I have them.....:soapbox :soapbox :soapbox :soapbox

luvs squirrels

08-19-2009, 10:47 PM

I downloaded Google Chrome today and I really like it. I'm using it now and don't have a problem and it's fast like Firefox. It lets you transfer all your bookmarks from Firefox too and will show any that you've put on the tool bar just like Firefox does.

Hopefully, when they do another upgrade on firefox to fix the problems, we can get it back.

Pointy Tale

08-22-2009, 05:09 PM

Thanks for responding, luvs...I was beginning to think I never posted this, because due to whatever browser problems I have or the continuing problems here on TSB, I never saw your response in "New Posts" :soapbox . You don't know how aggravating it is when I find out three days later that someone responded to me, or asked me a question. I'm still using Opera, but it's not too good for TSB I'm afraid. If I don't block pop-ups then my screen is covered with commercial GARBAGE....when I block the pop-ups, my PM's don't pop so I never know I have them.....:soapbox :soapbox :soapbox :soapbox
island rehabber—Have you had any success with windows explorer or too old?

Abi

08-25-2009, 06:24 PM

I can't answer the problem with an answer thats going to solve everything, but hopefully, there's a browser out there that will meet your needs...

Maybe this link will help you decide what you need that will suit you and your computer (and I use THREE browsers because just every once in a while, something screws up ROYALLY)

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_web_browsers

Clearing the cache/cookies and browsing history would be a start, but I guess by now you've done that several times already.... (CCleaner FTW!! :thumbsup )

You don't have to be tied to the browser that came with your computer.. (Internet Exploder) because that's the big key.. 'tied' - as in 'and very little in the way of room to move' and 'buggier than a bug filled garden' ;)

Give us a shout if ya need to :D

luvs squirrels

08-25-2009, 09:57 PM

I can't answer the problem with an answer thats going to solve everything, but hopefully, there's a browser out there that will meet your needs...

Maybe this link will help you decide what you need that will suit you and your computer (and I use THREE browsers because just every once in a while, something screws up ROYALLY)

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_web_browsers

Clearing the cache/cookies and browsing history would be a start, but I guess by now you've done that several times already.... (CCleaner FTW!! :thumbsup )

You don't have to be tied to the browser that came with your computer.. (Internet Exploder) because that's the big key.. 'tied' - as in 'and very little in the way of room to move' and 'buggier than a bug filled garden' ;)

Give us a shout if ya need to :D

I love CCleaner. It's so easy to use.

My favorite browser is Firefox, but I've been having issues with them. Google Chrome is fast just like Firefox.

Rianna

08-17-2010, 04:52 PM

I need some help please. I've transferred a lot of recipes from my desktop to my laptop and they were saved with the Microsoft Office Word 97 - 2003 Document (.doc) extension . The laptop came with Microsoft Office Word and it keeps asking for a "key" to be entered. If I have a key, it's nowhere to be found and if I did find it, it would probably be for the trial period only. I don't want to purchase anything...I just want to be able to convert so that my word pad thingie will open it without a lot of symbols and such.
I do know how to convert one file at a time but my problem is...this Office popup says that I can only use it 25 times (and I'm close to that number now) and then it will lock. I have WAY over 25 recipes:)
If anybody knows to to convert multiple files, please let me know step by step...cause I'm a dummy:) lol
Thanks in advance!!!

jbillings

06-26-2013, 12:00 AM

I don't know if this is the right place for me to ask this or not but I couldn't find where anyone had asked the question.... Is there a way to @ someone on TSB like you can on Instagram and Twitter? I just thought that would be a good idea so when someone mentions someone they will get notified and be able to respond. There are so many threads that it is impossible to keep up! Just wondering :D

BigNibbler

06-26-2013, 01:19 AM

.. hope this is basic enough for people completely new to all this (and computers) as I've had requests for help elsewhere too... so.. I hope the following is easy for you to print off and follow or follow or.... meh... you know!

1. If you havent got your film from your camera.. you're going to need to connect your camera to your computers usb port and move the film across... NEVER use the proprietry software that you get with a camera! (trust me... four digital cameras here... I know the score!)
Just plug the usb cable in (which should've been supplied with the camera) and connect up. If you've got a driver cd for your camera... keep it nearby.. let Windows search for it... when prompted, put the cd in. If the cd starts up (it's called 'autorun') close it down!
Let windows find and install the drivers from the cd... (you may have to point windows towards your cd/dvd drive... but thats all!)

2. Once all that is done, you'll be able to go to 'my computer' and you'll see your camera as a 'removable device'... this is perfectly normal.. this is your camera and this is where it sees the images/video.... and all you do is open it (double click!) and click on 'edit' and 'select all'... right click on the first image and RENAME!!!
I can't stress how important it is to rename pictures/video..! (long story... but... I accidentally wrote over a picture............ )
then click in a clear space (VERY IMPORTANT) for the name changes to take effect.
'edit' and 'select' all again.. on the left hand side, you'll see the option to 'move' or 'copy' your files to a different directory... YES, THIS IS WHAT YOU WANT TO DO!

Select 'MOVE' and you'll see a dialog box.. from this, select the destination for your pictures and video to go to... if you're a complete novice.. then you want to select 'MY DOCUMENTS' (you can move them anywhere else later if need be)

3. Windows Movie Maker is a good and useful tool.. if you need to create a picture slideshow - make the most of it!
Open Windows movie Maker and play around with it... it's a simple application and I can't find fault with it for what it does.
When you're happy with what you've done.. 'SAVE TO MY COMPUTER'.. pick a name for your finished film... click on next and next again - let windows decide whats best for your computer!
click next again
A progress bar will appear... showing where the process is at. When it's done, you have the option of watching what you've done right there and then... save the project file and then exit the application.

4. Get an account with youtube, yahoo videos or google videos.... this is a painless process....! Once done, you can post to your hearts content....

Youtube is the easiest one to start with. Make an account there... once you've done that, access your account and select 'upload' and follow the onscreen instructions... Title of your film, a description, then select what sort of film - which would be 'pets and animals' and then click on the proceed button at the bottom 'continue to upload' ...
From there, you'll see a new screen.. there will be a blank space with a tab at the side that says 'browse' - which is what you do.. you click browse and select the film from whichever folder you put your film in (for youtube, under 100mb and less than 10mins duration) and then click to upload.

*phew*
There.. that should help!

Hey Abi,
A tech thread is a great idea and let me be the first to congratulate you.. Ha HA
Just joking.
When did you start it? May 27th, 2007 and I am just noticing this now.
Unbelievable!

Anyway, forgive me, I am a professional photographer, and videographer.
You are welcome to PM me if you need to
But I doubt that.

Listen, not only have I not noticed your thread till just this moment.
But sadly, I am writing to point out one small but deadly issue that I strongly disagree with you on.
And to make it worse, I have not read most of the previous posts.
But I noticed this one point, and it is so urgent, vital, and even important, that it will keep me awake if I do not chime in, right here and right now!

Early in this thread, you write about copying and moving files.
Never, Ever, Move Files UNLESS, they are on the SAME drive.
When you tell the computer to Move a file, the computer copies the file first. Then it deletes the file from the source. It is only a matter of time, that for some reason, please believe me.. only a matter of time, before something interrupts the copy. But the delete still occurs. At which time you have lost the image!!! The EXCEPTION TO THIS, is when you have a file on a hard drive, and desire to relocate it, to another location on the SAME DRIVE. Copying then, is inefficient. It causes the same drive to have to execute both read and writes. Very slow, and in the end, you now have two instances of the files in virtually the same place on the same physical drive. Copying takes time. And will take longer if within the same drive. Moving is INSTANTANEOUS but ONLY if on the SAME drive. I know you know this Abi, and can expound on it further. The correct procedure is to copy the files, then to your HDD. Then rename them, using a logical and organized naming convention. Then backing up. .That means making a duplicate copy on at least one EXTERNAL drive, that is not going to be running all the time. Finally, you format the camera card. Professionals, do not format, and in so doing erase all the photos, without first confirming that the copy is OK, and that it is backed up. Amateurs often fail to format the card, leading to images remaining and therefore limiting space, as well as creating a problem when copying the files next. Worse they can insert the card, into another camera, and that will compound several problems. The card must be formatted in the camera it will be used, before use.

OK, obviously I was moved to write this urgent correction and apologize if it has been covered somewhere in the last few years of posts.

Cheers, and Carry ON!
And stop picking on the beautiful Eastern Gray Squirrels over there in UK!